Nyakamwe gorilla group is one of the eight gorilla families located within the famous Virunga National Park in the east of D.R. Congo. Virunga National Park boasts being the largest conservation area in Africa and a prime habitat for endangered mountain gorillas in D.R. Congo.
Under the management of Congolese National Park authorities and the African Conservation Fund, the park protects approximately 200 mountain gorillas that inhabit its southern region.
For several years, this park has faced a number of challenges, ranging from civil conflicts, militia attacks, oil and mineral exploration, and poaching, which have put the lives of mountain gorillas in Virunga at risk of extinction.
However, the population of mountain gorillas and other species in Virunga National Park is gradually stabilizing due to the zeal and courageous efforts of the government, rangers, conservation bodies, and all other well-wishers.
Formed in 2014 together with the Bageni group, Nyakamwe gorilla group is the latest addition to the portfolio of gorilla families in Virunga National Park. It broke off from the Humba family after power struggles between Silverback Nyakamwe and Humba (his brother) that led Nyakamwe to split on April 20, 2014, and form his separate family.
Upon leaving, Silverback Nyakamwe took with him 10 members, while Humba remained with only 5; but now the family has grown to 12 members, including 2 silverbacks, 2 sub-adult females, 4 adult females, 1 blackback, 2 babies, and 1 juvenile.
Trekking the Nyakamwe Gorilla Family
The group is located in the Bukima sector of Virunga National Park, offering an easy trekking experience, and it is the only group that can be trekked within a period of 1 hour or less. However, this is not guaranteed as it all depends on the movement of the gorillas within the jungles.
It is one of the most stable families in Virunga National Park, and being amidst them is truly amazing, as you watch the juveniles play, babies cuddle with their mothers, and Silverback Nyakamwe offer maximum protection to other members in the group.
